(NU/1433-30) CAF1 - A robust, easily engineered polymer with applications in synthetic biology: Commercialisation of university research through provision of management skills to assist in successful spin-out company creation

Caf1 is secreted from the bacterium Yersinia pestis to protect it from white blood cells during infection. It is formed from 15 kDa monomers that produce robust, flexible polymers up to 2 µm in length. We aim to create a spinout company that will initially produce Caf1 polymers and coated plasticware/microcarriers for the 2D cell culture market, predominantly focussed on laboratory research, expanding into commercial companies looking to scale up cell production. The Newcastle-based company will supply these products directly to customers, and through marketing partners who have established distribution networks. We are looking for a CEO/COO/Chairperson to work alongside Daniel Peters to develop a business plan that has considered the best market strategy for Caf1 in preparation for spinout formation and achieving the necessary fundraising

The initial brief of the executive will be to:

(1) Work with the existing team to lead in the creation of a viable 5 year business plan;

(2) Obtain university approval for the venture;

(3) a. Act for the company in the spin-out legal process and address all company formation matters;

b. Obtain founder academics’ and Newcastle University (including the Head of Company Creation) approval for appointment as CEO or agreed post supporting Daniel Peters

c. Provide to the appropriate university all matters necessary for Research England reporting requirements;

(4) Leading and work alongside the existing team to secure start up funding (venture capital and other) funding

Stage (5) will produce the funds by which the new start-up company can consider employing the executive going forward. It is expected, and the intent of the scheme, that the Executive will remain with the business following the end of the contract period. However, such appointment will be at the discretion of the board and appropriate university and will be subject to confirmation, typically at Stage 4 above